It's Hamburger Day! Be sure to party your buns off!

One of the best burgers I’ve sampled is the Jucy Lucy or Juicy Lucy. This is basically a double cheeseburger with cheese packed inside the meat patties rather than melted on top. This means that the cheese is surrounded by raw meat and melts as it cooks resulting in a molten core of gooey cheese within the patty. This scalding hot cheese tends to gush out at the first bite so servers frequently warn patrons to let the sandwich cool for a few minutes before consumption.

I enjoyed mine at Matt’s Bar in South Minneapolis, Minnesota. Local lore says that Matt’s is where this burger was invented although this claim is disputed by the 5-8 Club another eatery just a short distance from Matt’s.

Next time in the Twin Cities I plan on sampling the Juicy Lucy at the 5-8 Club and then try to determine which establishment offers up the best burger.

On a more local note Max & Erma’s “Garbage” burger is a tasty treat. As their menu states this classic includes everything but the kitchen sink - we stack it with hickory-smoked bacon, cheddar, Swiss, American, mozzarella, grilled onions, sautéed mushrooms, guacamole & marinara. Bursting at the bun with fantastic flavor! I enjoyed my first one many years ago in their original restaurant located in the heart of Columbus Ohio’s German Village. They’re still dishing them up in the village at 739 S. Third Street. Be sure to add this quaint place to your next Columbus travel plans. Parking may be an issue but enjoy the lovely homes and gardens are you drive around German village looking for a parking spot.

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Happy travels!